- Tenacity Grit

First Impressions
Released in October 2018, the Brunswick Tenacity Grit expands the Tenacity line with a version that offers considerably more bite. Technically it is built on the asymmetric Tenacity Low RG core, which at 15 lbs shows a 2.503 RG, a 0.052 differential and a 0.018 intermediate differential. Those numbers produce a quick revving-up and strong flare potential. The distinguishing feature is the cover: Brunswick uses the URG (Ultra Responsive Grit) Pearl Reactive coverstock, but skips the polish. Instead, the ball comes out of the box with a dull 3000 Siaair finish. In addition, DynamiCore technology is built in, which densifies the outer shell to increase durability and optimize carry. Visually the ball comes in a mix of black, purple and silver, and the matte texture immediately signals that this pearl ball wants to grab earlier than its shiny relatives.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Brunswick Tenacity (which was high-gloss polished), the Tenacity Grit gets into a roll much earlier on the lane and shows an overall rounder motion. Where the original Tenacity slides far through the heads and reacts extremely angular at the breakpoint, the Grit uses its rough surface to read the midlane more strongly and to smooth out the reaction at the end of the pattern. Looking outside the brand, the ball reaction closely resembles the Storm Physix. Both balls pair strong asymmetric cores with a surface that has pearl content (hybrid on the Physix, pearl here) but is sanded dull. In both cases the result is a hybrid-like motion: more length than a pure solid ball like the Brunswick Kingpin, but noticeably more traction and stability in oil than a classic shiny pearl ball.
On the Lanes
The Tenacity Grit is an excellent choice for medium to heavier oil patterns. It solves the "over-skid" problem that many pearl balls have on fresh oil by reliably building traction in the middle of the lane thanks to the 3000 finish. At the same time, the pearl chemistry preserves enough energy for a powerful move through the pins. It works especially well as a first ball on fresh house shots or sport patterns when you're looking for a defined line to the pocket but worry that a polished ball will slide too far. If you like playing deeper angles, it gives you the security that the ball won't refuse the change of direction, even when it's sent a bit further out into the oil. It is a versatile benchmark asymmetric that also takes polish well if you want to adapt it to drier lanes.